Documents

The Second Vatican Council document on the liturgy states that liturgy, which is the work of the people, is the “source and summit” of our lives as Catholics—it is our path of holiness! This teaching comes from the experience of the Church throughout the centuries following that first gathering with Jesus and the disciples. Everything about who we are and what we do revolves around liturgy.

“The celebration of Mass…is the center of the whole Christian life for the church both universal and local, as well as for each of the faithful individually.” (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, #16) Participating in the Mass puts us at the center of the Church’s life—it is our most important activity. We listen to the Word of God and we give thanks for life and salvation. All the baptized have something to do at Mass—we have the responsibility to participate fully, actively, and consciously at Mass. It is not only the priest or bishop who offers our gifts—all the priestly people offer their lives, remember Jesus’ Sacrifice, and share the communion with one another. Together we all give thanks and praise to our God.